Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its'A-'long-term rating, and stable outlook, to the town of Carrollton, Mo.'s lease participation certificates. The'A-'rating reflects our opinion of the town's: Status as the service center and seat for Carroll County; Adequate income level; and Strong unreserved cash balance. Offsetting factors in our view include the town's narrow local job base and moderately high overall debt burden. The certificates are secured by the town's rental payments made to UMB Bank N.A. (A/Stable) under a project lease agreement. The rental payments are subject to annual appropriation. The town plans to use certificate proceeds to refund its series 2002 certificates. Carrollton (2000 population: 4,122) is in western Missouri, about 70 miles northeast
